Betty Jo (Jody) Pankey, 73, of Peoria Heights, IL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Jody was born on December 27, 1946 in Keokuk, Iowa to Betty and Joe Riley. She married Raymond (Buck) Pankey on March 31, 1964 in Peoria. He preceded her in death.
Surviving are their daughter, Tracey Brownell of West Peoria and her children Taylor and Ellis Brownell, and one son, Raymond Shayne Pankey (Lisa) of Peoria Heights and their children Kirstyn, Heidi (Tiera), Levi (Kyla), and Dakota. Also surviving, one nephew, Jerry Griffin of Texarkana, Arkansas and five much cherished great-grandchildren.
Her parents, beloved husband, stepfather, Willis C. Reynolds, and sister Kimberly Vanderbilt (October 14, 2020) preceded her in death.
Jody attended Richwoods High School and studied Accounting at ICC. She delivered for Charles Chips and worked in Accounting for Kraft Sealtest, The Community Workshop and Sutliff and Case.
Jody was a talented painter. She was a member of the China Guild and won two first place ribbons for her artistry. In addition to painting Jody enjoyed crafting, music, dancing, and fashion. She used her many talents in service to her community for 26 years. She volunteered at Friendship House, The Food Bank, Crop Walk, and Peoria Heights Congregational Food Pantry.
Above all Jody was a devout Christian and cherished her family and friends. She will be remembered for her selfless efforts to help others in their time of need despite her crippling disability, pain, and suffering. The family is comforted knowing she is with her Lord and
no longer in pain.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to one of the aforementioned charities in Betty Jo Pankey’s honor.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Due to Covid, no services are scheduled at this time. Notes of condolence may be sent to www.peoriafuneral.com.
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